Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, has urged the UK government to strengthen its relationship with the European Union to mitigate the economic challenges posed by Brexit. Speaking in Dublin, Bailey emphasized that while Brexit was a decision made by the British people, its economic consequences, particularly on trade, ave been significant. He welcomed the government’s efforts to reset relations with the EU, viewing it as a positive step forward in addressing these challenges.
Bailey highlighted the importance of closer cooperation between London and Brussels, especially in financial services, to minimize the negative effects on trade. He noted that a breakdown in global trade would make it more difficult for the Bank of England to control inflation. This comes amid concerns over rising inflation rates in the UK, which have surpassed the Bank’s target.
The Governor’s comments align with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent efforts to forge closer trade and security ties with the EU. Starmer has expressed a strong interest in collaborating with the EU on key issues, including food standards and law enforcement, signaling a pragmatic shift in UK foreign policy following Brexit.
As the UK navigates its post-Brexit future, Bailey’s call for deeper ties with the EU underscores the necessity of international cooperation in addressing economic challenges and ensuring long-term stability. The government’s response to these recommendations will be crucial in shaping the nation’s economic trajectory.